Hypertension Secondary to Amitriptyline Use as Prophylactic for Migraine in a 26-Year-Old Man

Abstract

Amitriptyline is one of the leading medications used for migraine as prophylaxis. Amitriptyline may cause various side effects ranging from mild symptoms such as constipation and dry mouth to severe adverse events such as seizures and coma. Here we present a case of a young gentleman who was started on amitriptyline for migraine but developed hypertension. The patient's blood pressure normalized after stopping amitriptyline but became elevated when reintroduced. The case highlights the possibility of amitriptyline-induced hypertension even without concomitant medication use or high doses. We recommend regular blood pressure monitoring for patients on amitriptyline regardless of the dose.

Keywords: adverse effects; amitriptyline; headache; high blood pressure; hypertension; migraine; secondary hypertension; side effects.